Oration MMXVII :: Interview

Oration MMXVII :: Interview

Fans of the esoteric, black metal and all things dark are getting excited about the upcoming Oration MMXVII festival happening next month. The Icelandic black metal scene has been steadily growing and gaining recognition over the past couple of years and is now in better shape than ever before.

The 2016 edition of Oration was a resounding success and the next one will see the return of familiar faces along with some new additions. Aside from the headliners, Mgla and The Ruins of Beverast, the festival is mostly centered around the Oration label and Studio Emissary

This will be the second instalment of the festival and we spoke to the promoter Stephen Lockhart about the whole shebang.

For the uninitiated tell us about the concept and execution of Oration Festival?The initial concept around Oration was to be a showcase for Studio Emissary, as many of the bands playing have worked with the studio in one way or another. To a lesser extent, it was also supposed to be a showcase for the Oration record label, which at the time was barely active. Both ideas have become somewhat secondary now however, as the festival has quickly taken on a life of it’s own.

This is the second time for Oration, how will this years event be different from last years?From an aesthetic point of view, you’ll have to judge that for yourself. Of course there is the obvious addition of an extra night, more bands etc.

Do you expect many out-of-towers to fly in for the event?Yes! In fact, more than half of the tickets bought have been by non-Icelanders.

Which band are you most excited to see in February?It would be impossible to choose – as every band has their own different strengths. Oration is curated to present an overall atmosphere and experience. Every band will deliver, bringing an element that forms the experience as whole.

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